New Emergency Pediatric Space at Kaiser Permanente Roseville

In a significant move to enhance pediatric care, Kaiser Permanente Roseville unveiled a redesigned space specifically for pediatric patients in the emergency department.

This area aims to create a calmer and more child-friendly environment, separating young patients from adults receiving care. The space includes eight rooms decorated with a whimsical under-the-sea theme to make the experience less intimidating for children.

This pediatric pod brings together a dedicated team of staff with pediatric specialties, ensuring that children receive care from professionals trained specifically in pediatric medicine. The rooms are equipped with gowns, equipment, and medications tailored for children. On days when the emergency room is especially crowded, the pediatric space can also be used to treat and care for other patients.

“Our goal is to improve the overall care experience we provide to our pediatric patients,” said Rich Florio, MD, Kaiser Permanente Roseville physician in chief. “This space helps us better meet the unique needs of children and their families, giving parents confidence that their kids are getting high-quality care.”

Research has shown that high pediatric readiness in emergency departments significantly improves outcomes for children. Scoring above 87 points on the National Pediatric Readiness Project Assessment is associated with better survival rates and overall care quality. Kaiser Permanente Roseville’s emergency department scored a 95.5%, making it among the top 10% of hospitals for pediatric readiness.

Each pediatric patient room includes pediatric pain scale graphics, which help young patients communicate their level of pain more effectively. Additionally, a cart filled with toys and activities is available to distract children from pain and discomfort, making their stay more comfortable.

“This will help us reduce waiting times for our young patients and their families,” said Kim Menzel, Kaiser Permanente Roseville senior vice president and area manager. “This is a testament to our dedication to learning and evolving to better serve our pediatric population and to creating a truly child-friendly campus.”